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New grant helps men escape isolation


A group dedicated to helping isolated men get back into the community has received recognition through a grant worth $1,600 from ClubGRANTS NSW.

Run by Orange City Councils ‘Choices at Home’ community services wing, the Men’s Group provides ongoing support for men of all ages.

It’s in a relaxed environment where men can meet like-minded people and access information on services available to help them at home.

Orange City Council’s Services Committee chair, Cr Ron Gander said aim of the group was to help men who feel isolated from society and need extra support to move back into the community.

“The program started with a group of men who didn’t know each other, but has now turned into a group of friends,” Cr Ron Gander said.

“The men are in charge of what happens in their group.

“They discuss and choose where each week will take them.”

With the help of a 12-seater bus, the group has travelled to the Millthorpe Museum, Mount Panorama and is set to visit the Parkes Telescope as the weather warms up, Cr Gander said.

The Men’s Group meets every second Friday of the month at 144 March Street at 11am.
The gatherings attract between 10-20 men.

Group member Ted Mortimer started attending the Men’s Group after he moved to
Orange from Dubbo.

“I moved to Orange two years ago,” Mr Mortimer said.

“I heard about this group from the people at Home & Community Care and I’ve been
coming ever since.”

The clubs grant will be used to subsidise entry fees and travel costs.

For more information regarding the Choices at Home Men’s Group, please contact
Robyn Neal. Ph: 6393 8970

FRIENDSHIP: They stay for the friendship. Members of the Orange Men’s Group prepare lunch together during their weekly gatherng. (l. to r.) Shane Fardell, Wal Thorncraft, Ray Bartimote, Brian Copeland, Ted Mortimer and John Peters.
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